Orson Scott Card
Rebekah (2001)
Author: Orson Scott Card
Genre (and subgenre): Historical/Christian (Biblical)
Plot Summary:
Rebekah is a devout believer in the God of her uncle Abraham. A daughter of a Jewish father and a pagan mother, she fends off marriage offers from wealthy families because they do not worship the “true God.” Believing it to be the will of God, she marries Isaac, the son of Abraham, famous for nearly being sacrificed by his father. Rebekah must try to fit into her famous father-in-law’s household and try to conceive a son. When she finally gives birth to twin boys, Esau and Jacob, she tries to raise them according to her wishes rather than Abraham’s. She favors the gentle, obedient Jacob, rather than the (slightly elder) first born, the headstrong Esau. Esau is the favorite of Isaac and Abraham and heir to the “Birthright,” the knowledge and safekeeping of scripture. When Esau reaches the age to claim the birthright, Rebekah tries to convince Isaac that Jacob is more suitable for the holy duty. This leads to bitter battles within the family between husband and wife and the two brothers.
Geographical Setting: Ancient Canaan
Time Period: Ancient past, Book of Genesis era
Series: 2nd in Card’s Women of Genesis series; other novels include Sarah and Rachel and Leah. The Stone Tables is a similar work about Moses.
Appeal Characteristics:
Rebekah is an incredibly strong woman, who gains great personal power and confidence from her devout beliefs. Readers looking for a female character of firm religious beliefs will be attracted to this character. The novel discusses in great detail the troubles and benefits of marriage in the ancient Middle East. Finally, Card is a devout Mormon, and this novel conforms to his Mormon beliefs, so this also may draw readers to this work.
Similar Authors: Trudy J. Morgan-Cole; James R. Shott; Ellen Trayler; Anita Diamant; Walter Wangerin.
Red Flags: No profanity or violence. The Mormon spin on the story may be too much for some readers.
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